What’s the difference between a bank and a credit union? More than you might think.

At first glance, banks and credit unions can seem pretty similar as they both offer valuable financial services. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that credit unions can be a powerful partner for managing money. Aaron Caid joins us to explain why.

Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. 

A Different Kind of Financial Institution

Credit unions stand apart from traditional banks because they are not-for-profit cooperatives owned by their members. That means the focus is on long-term member relationships, and service is preeminent.

However, Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) goes a step further. Their mission is rooted in striving to serve and love others like Christ. This distinctly faith-based approach transforms everyday banking into a form of ministry that seeks to honor God and expand His Kingdom.

At Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU), they help members align their finances with their biblical worldview. That includes offering loans to build churches and support Christ-centered ministries, turning ordinary financial tools into extraordinary Kingdom-building instruments.

Surprising Strength in Rates and Services

Many people assume credit unions can’t compete with traditional banks regarding rates, but that’s a misconception. Because credit unions don’t exist to make profits for shareholders, they can return those profits to our members through better rates and lower fees.

Here’s a snapshot of Christian Community Credit Union’s (CCCU) current offerings:

• Harvest High-Yield Checking: 4% APY on balances up to $5,000 with no maintenance fees
• Harvest High-Yield Savings: 5% APY on the first $5,000
• Welcome CD: 4.5%–4.75% APY on 5- and 10-month terms
• Cash Back Credit Card: 1.5% cash back and a donation to Christian causes with every swipe

CCCU also offers vehicle loans, mortgages, and home equity lines of credit at competitive rates, digital banking, and 24/7 member support.

Beyond rates and products, CCCU is also committed to spiritual growth through financial stewardship. They provide resources from trusted partners like FaithFi and Compass Financial Ministry to help our members grow in their financial discipleship.

It’s not just about managing money well—it’s about managing money faithfully.

Funding Ministry and Fueling the Gospel

One of the most inspiring aspects of CCCU is its direct support of ministry work. CCCU specializes in ministry lending, and with over $1 billion in ministry loans funded, it understands what churches and ministries need.

From property and equipment loans to operating accounts and reserve fund solutions, CCCU partners with ministries financially and missionarily.

Plus, their giving program has donated more than $6.5 million to Christian causes. That includes ministries fighting human trafficking, protecting vulnerable children, providing disaster relief, and sharing the gospel worldwide.

Becoming a Member is Easy

So, how can you join?

Membership is open to Christians and Christian ministries nationwide. You can become a member through your church, school, a partner ministry like Christian Alliance for Orphans, or even through a family member.

With a streamlined online process, starting banking with your values is easier than ever. When your money is aligned with your faith, it does more than grow—it gives, serves, and multiplies for God's glory.

To learn more or become a member, visit joinchristiancommunity.com.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I have a 401(k) at a place where I used to work about 15 years ago, at the University of North Chicago. It's about $15,000, and I have not been at that job for over 15 years. I want to know if it's a good idea to move it. Should I combine it with my current 401(k), or should I just leave it there?
• I have a stock in my portfolio that is losing between 40 and 47%. It has an F rating and is a large part of my portfolio. I want to sell it, but I want to know what to do with it after I sell it. I have it in Schwab, and I'm wondering if there's a better fund I could put it in since I have a lot sitting there.
• I'm contributing to an employer 457(b) plan. Those funds are going into a Roth plan, and I am contributing the maximum amount. I'm married and over 50. I'd like to know if I can also open a personal Roth IRA and a traditional Roth IRA.
• I would like to sell a piece of land, but I want to sell it to a developer, maybe someone who would be developing a spa, a hotel, or something similar. I want to know where I can go to access or look for developers who would be interested in purchasing my land.
• My husband and I didn't file taxes from 2016 to 2022, and sadly, he passed away recently. There are IRS notices with increased penalties and interest. Do I have to list the fact that there is a withholding on the IRS notices, even though I didn't have any income, and it was all his income?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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